Everything you need to know about our services, process, fees, travel documents, and support — across 8 categories and 50 questions. Can’t find an answer? Reach out directly.
Pre-consultation questions on fees, timelines, and the value of our service
5 Questions
What countries and services do you specialize in?
We specialize in Study Abroad (North America, Europe, Australia), Immigration/PR pathways, and providing full travel logistics (flights, hotels). Our expertise lies in creating a customized portfolio strategy to secure your visa.
What is your success rate?
We do not disclose a public percentage, but our focus is on Portfolio Vetting & Visa Preparation. Our rigorous mock interviews and document review process ensure our clients are highly prepared and have a strong chance of success based on their profile.
What is the total cost of your service?
Our service is broken down into four clear phases (Planning, Document Review, Application, Visa Processing). Phase I (Initial Consultation & Planning) is ₦30,000. We provide full fee transparency during this initial consultation — there are no hidden costs.
How long does the entire process take?
The duration is profile-dependent, but our goal is speed. Our Initial Consultation (Phase I) takes 1–2 weeks. The subsequent phases depend on external embassy and university processing times, which we monitor closely.
Do I need to have my funds ready to start?
To start Phase I (Initial Consultation), you do not need proof of funds. However, to proceed to Phase II (Document Review), you must demonstrate access to your sponsor’s documents to ensure we match you with schools you can actually afford and qualify for.
Section II
Active Clients
Post-payment and mid-process questions on managing expectations and process status
3 Questions
I’m feeling nervous about the visa interview. What’s next?
That’s completely normal! The next step is your mock interview training with our specialist. We will schedule an intense session focusing on your specific portfolio and potential questions to ensure you are confident and your answers align perfectly with your documents.
Can you change my school choice at this stage?
Changing schools past the Phase II/III stage requires a new application strategy, which will impact your timeline and payment. Please schedule a brief meeting with your Travel Advisor to assess the implications and update your application plan.
I need to travel next month for a vacation. Can you help?
Absolutely! While we manage your study application, our Travel Packages team can fully assist you. Please provide your Travel Advisor with your dates and destination, and they will handle all the flight and hotel logistics for you separately.
Section III
Agency Services & Fees
Questions on trust, value, and why to use a professional agency
5 Questions
Why should I use your agency instead of booking online myself?
We offer expertise, value, and a safety net. We save you hours of frustrating research, provide curated, personalised recommendations based on our firsthand knowledge, and most critically, we are your single point of contact if anything goes wrong during your trip.
Will I pay more for my trip if I book through you?
Not necessarily. While we charge a planning fee, we often have access to exclusive wholesale rates, packaged deals, and amenities not available to the general public. These perks frequently offset the cost of our service fee, giving you a better overall value.
How does your agency find better deals than public websites?
We are part of a preferred partner network with major suppliers (hotels, cruise lines, tour operators). This grants us access to private, bulk inventory and allows us to offer added-value perks that simple online booking sites cannot match.
What types of travel do you specialize in?
Our specialization covers student admissions, luxury vacations, African Safari, family relocation, and budget-friendly holiday packages. Our deep expertise in these niches allows us to offer detailed, insider knowledge that generic booking sites can’t provide.
Do you work with non-local clients, or are you geographically limited?
We are a full-service agency capable of supporting clients globally. Our consultations are primarily conducted via phone and video conference. As long as you have internet access, we can plan your perfect trip anywhere in the world.
Section IV
Booking & Customization
Questions about what to prepare and how we tailor your experience
5 Questions
What information do I need to prepare before our first consultation?
Please come prepared with your estimated budget, desired travel dates, the number of travelers, and any must-see activities you have in mind. This allows us to focus our initial research effectively.
Can you help me choose a destination that fits my budget and interests?
Absolutely. That is our specialty! Based on your budget, travel style, and interests, we will curate 2–3 distinct itinerary options with transparent pricing to help you make an informed decision.
What are the payment schedule and deposit requirements for a trip?
An initial non-refundable deposit is due upon booking to secure all reservations. The final balance is typically due 60 to 90 days prior to departure, depending on the supplier. We will provide a clear, customised payment plan for your trip.
Can you book only flights, or must I book a full package?
While we specialize in complete, curated packages, we are happy to assist with standalone bookings for clients requiring only flights or only a hotel. Note that our planning fee applies regardless of the booking complexity.
Can I earn and use my frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty points?
Yes, in most cases. As long as the booking is made under your name and loyalty number, you can typically earn points. We can integrate loyalty bookings into your final itinerary.
Section V
Travel Documents & Safety
Questions about visas, passports, vaccinations, and pre-trip guidance
6 Questions
Do I need a visa or special documents for my destination?
We will provide you with up-to-date, country-specific guidance on all necessary visas, e-visas, and entry forms. We guide you through the application process and ensure you meet all legal entry requirements well before departure.
How long must my passport be valid for travel?
Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return date. We check this requirement for your specific destination during the booking process to prevent issues at the airport.
Do you provide guidance on local customs, tipping, and safety concerns?
Absolutely. Every client receives a comprehensive, personalised Pre-Trip Briefing Document which includes advice on local etiquette, tipping standards, cultural sensitivities, and current travel advisories for your region.
Are there any required or recommended vaccinations for my destination?
We are not medical professionals, but we provide official links and recommendations from organisations like the WHO or national health bodies. We strongly advise consulting your personal physician or a travel clinic for definitive medical advice.
How do I handle currency exchange and what is the best payment method while abroad?
We advise using a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees for major purchases and withdrawing local currency from bank ATMs. We will specify the local currency and typical exchange rates in your Pre-Trip Briefing.
What baggage restrictions and allowances apply to my flight?
Baggage allowances vary significantly by airline, fare class, and route. We include the specific allowance and carry-on limits for every segment of your flight itinerary clearly in your final documents to avoid unexpected airport fees.
Section VI
Insurance, Cancellations & Changes
Questions on protecting your investment and handling unexpected changes
6 Questions
Do you offer or require travel insurance?
Travel insurance is mandatory for all our international bookings to protect your investment and ensure your well-being. We offer comprehensive policies from trusted providers to cover cancellation, delays, medical emergencies, and baggage loss.
When is the best time to purchase travel insurance?
Immediately after paying your first trip deposit. Many policies require you to purchase insurance within 10–21 days of that initial payment to qualify for crucial benefits like Pre-Existing Medical Condition Waivers.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my trip?
Contact us immediately. We handle all communication with suppliers on your behalf, navigating their specific change/cancellation policies to minimise penalties and maximise eligible refunds/credits. Note that our planning fee is non-refundable.
If a supplier cancels or changes my booking, what is your role?
Our primary role is to act as your advocate. We will immediately manage the crisis, working to find comparable alternatives, secure refunds, or rebook you. You save hours of frustration dealing with call centres — you just call us.
Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by the travel insurance you offer?
Yes, provided the policy is purchased promptly (usually within 14–21 days of your first payment) and you are medically fit to travel at the time of purchase. We guide you through ensuring any pre-existing conditions are disclosed and covered.
Is trip cancellation due to weather covered?
Most comprehensive policies cover cancellation or interruption due to weather-related issues that cause a travel shutdown. We will review the specific weather clauses of your policy during the selection process.
Section VII
On-Trip Support
Questions about emergency contact, itineraries, and 24/7 assistance while traveling
5 Questions
How can I contact you in case of a travel emergency while I am abroad?
You will receive a 24/7 Emergency Hotline Number for our agency and/or our global support partner. This number is monitored constantly, allowing you to reach a travel professional for urgent issues regardless of time zone.
What if my flight is significantly delayed or canceled while I’m traveling?
Call our emergency line immediately. We will leverage our direct airline contacts and systems to rebook your flight, secure new hotel accommodations, and adjust transfers while you focus on navigating the airport disruption.
Who do I call if I have an issue with my hotel or an arranged tour?
For immediate, minor issues contact the hotel front desk or tour representative first. If the issue is unresolved or major, call your dedicated travel advisor or our 24/7 emergency line, and we will intervene on your behalf.
Will I receive a detailed itinerary for my trip?
Yes. You will receive a secure, mobile-friendly Digital Itinerary with all confirmations, maps, and flight details, as well as a concise Printed Summary prior to your departure for easy reference.
Do you provide 24/7 support or only during business hours?
Our planning and booking desk operates during business hours (Mon–Fri, 9 AM – 6 PM). However, our Emergency On-Call team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to handle urgent situations for clients who are currently traveling.
Section VIII
Study Abroad & Visa Questions
Common questions from Nigerian students and travellers about visas, schools, and the application process
15 Questions
How can I increase my chances of getting a student visa from Nigeria?
To improve your chances, you need a strong academic profile, proper financial documentation, and a clear study plan that aligns with your background. At Tabula Rasa, we help structure your application to meet embassy expectations and reduce common rejection risks.
What are the common reasons for visa rejection in Nigeria?
Most visa refusals happen due to weak financial proof, unclear purpose of travel, inconsistent documents, or poor interview performance. We help identify and fix these issues before submission.
Can you help if my visa has already been rejected?
Yes. We provide application correction and readiness services to review your previous application, identify what went wrong, and guide you on how to reapply with a stronger profile.
How do I choose the right country or school to study abroad?
The right choice depends on your academic background, budget, career goals, and visa approval chances. We help you select schools and countries that give you the best chance of both admission and visa approval.
What documents do I need for a student or tourist visa?
Requirements vary by country, but generally include academic records, financial documents, identification, and supporting statements. We guide you through preparing and organising all required documents correctly.
How can I avoid visa rejection from Nigeria?
Focus on a strong application, clear purpose, and proper financial documentation. Avoid inconsistencies and incomplete documents. We help structure your application to meet embassy expectations and reduce rejection risks.
Can I still apply again if my visa was denied?
Yes. A rejection does not mean the end. The key is to identify what went wrong and fix it properly before reapplying. We review your previous application and guide you on the best way to move forward.
How much money do I really need to study abroad from Nigeria?
The total cost includes tuition, visa fees, proof of funds, travel, and living expenses. We provide a clear financial breakdown and help you choose options that fit your budget.
How do I know the right country or school for me?
The right option depends on your academic background, budget, and long-term goals. We help you choose schools and countries that match your profile and improve your approval chances.
Do I need a sponsor or proof of funds for my visa?
Yes, most countries require proof of funds or a sponsor. The funds must be properly documented and explained. We guide you on how to present your finances clearly and correctly.
Can you help me if I have low grades or a weak profile?
Yes. Your profile can still be positioned properly with the right school selection and application strategy. We help you identify suitable options and strengthen your application.
How long does the study or visa process take?
Timelines vary by country, but the process generally includes application, admission, and visa stages. We provide a clear timeline, so you know what to expect at every step.
What if I don’t understand the application or visa process?
That’s exactly why we’re here. We guide you through the entire process step by step, so you don’t have to guess or figure things out on your own.
Is it possible to work or stay back after studying abroad?
Yes, many countries offer post-study work opportunities and long-term pathways. We guide you on options that align with your career goals.
How do I know I’m not wasting my money on the wrong process?
By having a clear plan, proper guidance, and realistic expectations. We focus on helping you make informed decisions, so your investment leads to real results.
Still Have Questions?
Speak Directly with a Travel Expert
If you couldn’t find the answer you were looking for, book a consultation and one of our consultants will give you clear, personalised guidance based on your specific situation.